Chapter 1869:
Galen’s expression stiffened. Then, forcing a smile, he stumbled over his excuse.
“Uh, because… you saved my daughter, of course.”
At that, Belinda fell silent. But her eyes betrayed her doubt; she didn’t buy his excuse.
If that were truly the reason, why hadn’t he shown concern before?
It had been some time since the incident, after all.
Belinda’s thoughts churned. It seemed the Happer family had already begun to wonder if she was Carola’s daughter.
Belinda didn’t know how to face the Happer family for the moment.
She could only tell herself to let things be for now.
She tried to keep her mind from spiraling.
Drawing in a steadying breath, she said, “Thank you for your concern, Galen. Is there anything else? If not, I’ll be on my way.”
At her words, Galen blurted out in a rush, “Don’t leave yet!”
He caught himself, suddenly aware that his tone might have come off too blunt.
With his lips pressed together in hesitation, he tried again.
“Uh, I only meant, the drinks are on their way. Why not wait and enjoy them before you go? The beverages here are really quite good.”
Lyle stayed silent.
Hearing his grandfather’s clumsy excuse, he couldn’t help but cover his face with his hand in resignation.
Thankfully, Belinda didn’t refuse.
Trying to keep the conversation going, Galen asked Belinda, “And how’s work? Everything smooth?”
Belinda gave a polite nod.
“Yes, things are going well.”
Galen leaned forward slightly.
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“And Lucas? He’s treating you right?”
At the mention of Lucas, a soft, tender look touched Belinda’s face.
Her lips curved into a faint smile as she replied, “He’s wonderful to me. We’re very happy.”
“That’s good, very good,” Galen said, relief washing through him. He recalled how Lucas had stood by Belinda fiercely before, even willing to jeopardize family bonds, proof enough of just how much Belinda meant to him.
When the drinks finally arrived, the three people in the room sipped in silence, the air tinged with a faint awkwardness.
Once she finished her juice, Belinda rose.
“I have matters to see to, so I’ll be leaving now.”
With that, she stood, picked up her bag, and prepared to leave.
“Wait!” Lyle’s deep, magnetic voice echoed.
He stood up from the sofa and stepped toward her.
Looking her over, he said, “I kept forgetting to tell you—there’s something in your hair.”
He reached out, fingers brushing lightly through the strands at the crown of her head.
